Email journal from the Australian yacht Maranatha sailing in Louisiades Archipelago, PNG

Admiral’s Update No.1 of 2008

I can’t believe it’s May already!! We are in the chaotic throes of last minute repairs and provisioning for slipping and antifouling. May the 5th and 6th are our dates on the slip. Please pray for fine weather, sufficient tide height and a trouble-free lift-out and back.

It’s always a bit stressful using a new slip as no matter how much the owners assure you, “We can handle the weight” and “There’s plenty of water”, there is always the element of doubt until you’ve actually done it.

After the slipping, we’ll sail back down the river to Bundaberg for final provisioning and head off for Townsville when the weather is right — probably about mid May. We may have a passenger part of the trip up the coast as Laurie Mackeson, an old friend from way back may come with us.

I’ve been asked to teach at a Sunday School Conference at Port Moresby 9th-12th July so we will leave the boat at Alotau and fly there together. We are looking forward to finally seeing the famous Bethel Bible College that turns out such well equipped pastors.

Our thanks to those of you who support us in goods, finance and prayer. We value every contribution and could not operate without you.